The shrine has long been a place of worship for local residents. It is said that your wish will be granted if you can find the three rabbit sculptures hidden behind the main sanctuary. Don’t miss the approximately 900-year-old gingko tree (prefectural natural monument).

The road runs across the Zao mountains from east to west. The view ranges from unique geographical features to alpine plants. From late September you will be surrounded by vibrant autumn leaves while you drive through.

Located on the mountainside, Zao Onsen dates back over 1,900 years. The hot spring resort offers accommodation, public baths, footbaths, and bathing facilities for day visitors too.

The circular crater lake surrounded by three of Zao’s peaks, namely Kattadake, Kumanodake, and Goshikidake. The emerald green water and the rough crater walls create a romantic contrast.

This ancient temple with a history going back over 1,100 years exudes a sacred atmosphere. The scenery is breathtaking in autumn when the surrounding gorge and mountains are bathed in vibrant colors.

The hot spring village with its wooden inns setting a nostalgic ambience. Enjoy strolling around the village, stopping at the footbaths, souvenir shops, and more. The village gained fame as the setting of “Oshin,” a TV drama series that became popular in many countries.

The gorge is located at the foot of Mt. Omoshiro in Yamagata Prefecture. You can enjoy hiking amid superb scenery created by the brilliant autumn colors of broadleaf trees and the dark green of evergreens.

The 55-m-high, 6-m-wide waterfall ranks among the three most beautiful waterfalls in Japan. Enjoy the combination of dynamic waterfall and autumn foliage.

Come and enjoy the large tanks showcasing marine life in the Sanriku area. Also see unique creatures from all over the world and enjoy the performance by dolphins and sea lions.

Located on the road connecting Miyagi and Yamagata, this is one of the most popular roadside stations in the Tohoku region. The extensive facility houses a homemade bakery, buffet-style restaurant, and much more.

From mid-October to early November, the leaves on the trees in the large 100m-deep ravine turn brilliant reds and yellows, creating a beautiful contrast with the river.

Located in central Tohoku, this hot spring resort consists of five hot spring areas. Go around the hot springs and try the nine different kinds of water.

This roadside station is a good place to rest and get information. It has a market that sells local vegetables, rice cakes, and ready-to-eat foods, as well as a restaurant and hot spring facilities.

Matsushima refers to the 260 small islands scattered across Matsushima Bay in in Miyagi Prefecture. The native beauty of the expansive horizon and islands ranks as one of Japan’s three most scenic places.

The temple houses the mausoleum of Date Mitsumune, second son of Date Tadamune (the second lord of the Sendai Domain). The scenery is beautiful in any season, but especially in autumn when the trees are lit up. You can also try your hand at making a Buddhist rosary.

The ruins of the castle built by the powerful feudal lord Date Masamune offer frandstand views over the city. The statue of Masamune on horseback and the northern wall of the keep are lit up from sunset until 11 pm.

In the Minamihara district of Yonezawa City in Yamagata Prefecture, there is a small forest called Totoro’s Forest after the character in the animated film, My Neighbor Totoro.

The sightseeing road connecting Takayu Onsen and Tsuchiyu Onsenkyo in Fukushima Prefecture. The road is called the “road in the sky” due to its average altitude of 1,350 m. You can enjoy the “snow corridor” in spring and colorful foliage in autumn.

Located on the northern side of Mt. Bandai, Fukushima’s symbol, the cluster of lakes and ponds is a picturesque spot where each pond has a different color, such as azure, blue, or green.